"You are the future of our nation": Bong Go praises diligence of young leaders, commits continued support for the National Movement of Young Legislators

PHILIPPINES, November 29 - Press Release
November 27, 2024

"You are the future of our nation": Bong Go praises diligence of young leaders, commits continued support for the National Movement of Young Legislators

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Youth, joined the National Movement of Young Legislators' (NYML) 4th Quarter National Council Assembly Opening Dinner on Tuesday, November 26, as one of the event's keynote speakers.

Held at Citadines Hotel in Pasay City, the assembly gathered approximately 200 young legislators composed of Board Members, Vice Mayors, Councilors, and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation Presidents to strengthen idealism and commitment to good governance.

"Kanina po maraming nagpapasalamat sa akin. Sa totoo lang po, huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa akin dahil dapat ako po ang magpasalamat sa inyo, dahil binigyan niyo ako ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo," Go said.

"Your presence here today is a testament to your dedication to serving your communities and building a brighter future for our nation," added Go.

Go mentioned that he is filled with pride to witness the gathering with passionate and visionary leaders of the country.

"Leadership is not about power or position--it is about service, humility, and the unwavering commitment to uplift the lives of those who rely on us, especially the poor and the marginalized. Always remember, as public servants, we carry the hopes and dreams of countless individuals. Let us strive to be the leaders they can trust and depend on," the Senator cited.

During the event, Go acknowledged the people behind the success of the assembly, recognizing NMYL President Councilor Marlon Alejandrino, National Vice Chairman Board Member Antonio Jose Rebong, National Secretary General Board Member Kerby Javier Salazar, and National Deputy Secretary Councilor Janina Carine Farinas, among others.

Senator Go, who is also the Chairperson of the Senate Committees on Health and Demography, and on Sports, championed several legislations to improve the quality of life of the Filipino people.

Among the legislative initiatives he supported was Republic Act No. 11466, or the Salary Standardization Law (SSL) 5, for which he was one of the authors and co-sponsors in the Senate in 2019. He also filed Senate Bill No. 2504, or the proposed SSL 6, aimed at providing fair and competitive compensation for government workers.

As part of his commitment to supporting local governments, Go also pushed for the SBN 194, or the E-Governance Act. This proposed law seeks to modernize government systems through digital platforms, ensuring more efficient and accessible services for all Filipinos.

Go also filed SBN 2802, a proposed measure aimed at setting the term of office for Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to six years, a significant increase from the current three-year term.

To further institutionalize his vision for sports development, Go played a key role in creating the National Academy of Sports (NAS) by authoring and co-sponsoring RA No. 11470. Located in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, NAS combines secondary education with a sports-focused curriculum, offering a dual path for student-athletes to excel in their sports and academic endeavors.

In addition to his efforts with NAS, Go principally sponsored and is one of the authors of SBN 2514, the proposed Philippine National Games (PNG) Act. The Bicameral Conference Committee Report of this bill was ratified by the Senate on September 23. It seeks to institutionalize a structured national sports program that not only promotes grassroots sports but also provides opportunities for aspiring athletes to compete at the national level.

Moreover, Go and his Malasakit Team gave tokens of appreciation to the participants, such as fans, gift packs, shirts, candies, and basketballs and volleyballs.

The NMYL assembly, according to Go, is an avenue to discuss how equally important is the lawmakers' engagement with partners and stakeholders. "Whether it is with the private sector, non-government organizations, or international institutions, partnerships can amplify our efforts and bring about lasting change."

Ending his speech, Go reminded the legislators to always do what is right. "Tandaan natin, minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa ay gawin na natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito."

"You are the future of our nation--young, dynamic, and full of potential. Use this assembly as an opportunity to learn, to collaborate, and to grow as leaders. Together, let us build a Philippines that is not only progressive but also compassionate, just, and united," Go concluded.